Indi MP upgraded to serious but stable after double amputation

The Alfred hospital in Melbourne reported that federal MP Helen Haines is in a serious but stable condition as of Saturday morning. This status update follows her previous classification as critical but stable. The hospital spokesperson made the announcement early on Saturday.

Haines, who represents the Victorian seat of Indi, was struck by a car in Wangaratta on Monday afternoon. Surgeons initially attempted to salvage her right leg, but the extent of her injuries required the amputation of both lower limbs.

Police charged Brendan Nugent, a 43-year-old man from Tarrawingee, on Tuesday. He faces charges for dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and the Commonwealth offence of causing harm to a public official. Court records indicate he has since been charged with two additional offences for cultivating and possessing cannabis. Nugent appeared at Wangaratta magistrates court on Wednesday and did not request bail.

Phil Haines, Helen’s husband, addressed reporters outside the hospital on Wednesday. He stated that his wife’s heart and mind are in good shape. He described her as a compassionate person with a sharp intellect.

On Friday, Haines’s staff posted an update on social media. They expressed hope to reopen her electorate offices next Thursday. The team noted that many staff members witnessed the incident and provided immediate assistance. The post asked for understanding as the team cares for one another during the recovery period.

Donations made in Haines’s honour for Save the Children have surpassed $730,000. Her husband encouraged the public to support the charity’s special appeal while she recovers. A community vigil took place in Wodonga on Wednesday evening. Cathy McGowan, Haines’s predecessor, told attendees that the community was dealing with mixed emotions.

The incident has prompted debate regarding political security and mental health services in regional Victoria. In Western Australia, police recently charged a 56-year-old man after he allegedly threatened staff at the office of state local government minister Hannah Beazley.